Coasting through Croatia

A 2-week itinerary exploring Croatia’s cities and islands

Entrancing cities with ancient roots. Peaceful islands that entice you to unwind. Discover the different sides of the Dalmatian Coast on this inspiring itinerary that takes you from Dubrovnik and Split up to Lošinj island in the north. All put together by our experienced Travel Advisors, who are here to make planning your luxury adventure easy.

AT A GLANCE

• 2-week independent itinerary for the Croatian coast based on arriving in Dubrovnik and departing from Lošinj

• Pair pocket-sized and picturesque city centres with tranquil Adriatic islands, all from some of the best boutique hotels Croatia has to offer

START IN STYLE: DUBROVNIK

It may be hardly ‘off-the-beaten-track’, but the moment you see Dubrovnik Old Town, you’ll see why it pulls in the crowds. With its time-polished marble streets, the Pearl of the Adriatic glimmers with Baroque grandeur.

Strolling along Stradun and around the City Walls should be on any first-time visitor’s list. But here’s our pick of ways to dig a little deeper – and stray a little further than the average tourist.

• Go a step beyond the popular sites to find somewhere a little quieter. Duck into the Franciscan monastery for a slice of serenity next to Stradun. Or, while everyone makes for Banje beach, take a walk east of the Old Town to reach scenic Sveti Jakov. If you’re staying at Villa Orsula Dubrovnik, you’ll be even closer.

• Spend summer evenings like a local and catch a film or live band at the open air Slavica Cinema, just outside Pile Gate.

• Escape to the islands – hop on a water taxi over to Lokrum, site of an ancient monastery and lush botanical gardens. Go further afield to Korcula, or cross over the border to Kotor in Montenegro. While not strictly an island, its sheer, encircling cliffs make it feel far removed from everyday life.

UNPACK YOUR SUITCASE

Walk in the footsteps of kings, queens and Hollywood royalty at Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik, an early-20th century villa turned contemporary retreat, with a private beach. Suggested stay 4 nights.

THE ADVENTURE CONTINUES: SPLIT

Croatia’s second city sits an hour or two up the coast. You’ll likely spend your time here weaving in and out of Split’s fascinating ancient landmark: Diocletian’s Palace. Built for its eponymous 4th century Roman emperor, it was abandoned before being transformed into a living, breathing town – all inside the palace. Today, you can even stay at a boutique hotel built into the defensive walls: Hotel Vestibul Palace.

Spend your days strolling up to Marjan park for sweeping views of the city. Or darting out to explore the surrounding islands by yacht or speedboat charter. Then as night falls, dive back into the twisting lanes inside the palace to find relaxed restaurants and stylish wine bars. Suggested stay 3-4 nights

LAST BUT NOT LEAST: LOŠINJ

You’ve taken in the highlights of the Dalmatian Coast. Now we leave the well-trod southern islands behind to experience a place known more to local Croatians than overseas visitors: Lošinj.

This natural jewel of the Kvarner Archipelago first found fame as a luxury wellness destination in the 19th century. Today, luxury hotels such as Boutique Hotel Alhambra continue this grand tradition, with serene spas and superb service.

There’s plenty more stripped back experiences to enjoy, too. Explore miles of undeveloped coastline, stopping off for a wild swim at pebble beaches such as Golden Bay. Or take a boat trip out to spot pods of dolphins. Slip on your snorkel, and you might even spot turtles lazily drifting through the Adriatic blue. Suggested stay 5-6 nights

TRAVEL TIPS

Dubrovnik airport is well connected for international flights. Drive or book a transfer up the coast to Split – or take a leisurely ferry ride that stops off at islands including Hvar along the way. For Lošinj, if you’re not taking a private flight to the island’s tiny airport, it’s best to travel first to Zadar then get a ferry. There are plenty of sailings during the summer season, with the afternoon sailing generally the faster option. The closest international airport to Lošinj is Rijeka. As always, ask our Voice Reservation Team for details about transfers or transport provided by individual hotels.

BOOK YOUR BOUTIQUE HOTELS

To book the hotels on this independent itinerary, get in touch with our Voice Reservation Team on 0800 0482 314 (UK) & 1-877-234-7033 (US). You can find a full list of our dedicated toll-free numbers here. We’re ready and waiting to plan luxury adventures 24 hours a day, seven days a week. So whenever inspiration strikes, just get in touch.